LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The Indiana State Police (ISP) are revamping their look and recruiting standards as they open applications for the 90th Recruit Academy, introducing blue patrol cars, updated requirements, and new incentives.
The department is replacing its traditional black-and-white cruisers with blue patrol vehicles, currently being built and marked in Indianapolis.
“It’s been quite some time. We have black cars. Back in the 1990s, there was a period where we all drove black cars. We went back to white cars for several years, and now we’re finally returning to blue,” said Sgt. Carey Huls.
Applications opened on Oct. 6 at IndianaTrooper.com, and ISP hopes the updates will attract a new generation of troopers. For the first time, rookie troopers will be issued take-home patrol cars, providing a major incentive for recruits.
“Now we’ve totally flipped that. It’s an incentive — you go to the academy, you get great pay, and you drive a brand-new car right out of the gate,” Huls said.
New recruits start at $66,000 during the academy, rising to $70,000 upon graduation, with annual raises and full benefits. Eligibility requirements have also been updated: applicants must now have at least 60 college credit hours or two years of military service, reflecting the evolving nature of policing.
While rules on tattoos have been relaxed, troopers with visible ink must wear long-sleeve uniforms year-round, which are lightweight, breathable, and professional in appearance.
Recruits gain extensive benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid leave, pension options, on-duty physical training, take-home vehicles, GI Bill eligibility, and student loan forgiveness opportunities.
The application window closes Jan. 11, 2026, with the next academy starting in July 2026.
“If you’re a car person, if you like to serve and make a difference — this is the place for you,” Huls said.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Leave a Reply